3D Printers in Healthcare

We have all heard of 3 D printers. Some of us may even own one or will buy one in the future. In 2013, income generated from 3D printers was $3.07 billion. By 2020, less than two years away, this figure will skyrocket to an estimate of $21 billion. In the hospital setting, there are myriad uses. First, a definition is in order. 3D printing works on the concept of layers. A computer program is instructed to apply multiple layers of a product, which is usually plastic or metal until the finished design is complete.

ORGANOIDS AND PEDIATRIC HEART SURGERY

Now scientists are using this technology to create organs known as organoids made from stem cells. Think of the possibilities this will create for patients experiencing common ailments such as kidney and liver failure! This may prevent them from having to start and experience kidney dialysis. Down the line, they may also be able to delay death from kidney and liver failure. They can avoid risky transplant surgery. Since 2015, The Heart Program at Nicklaus Children's Hospital in Miami has been using 3D printing to formulate models of pediatric patients' hearts before surgery. Creating a 3D model before surgery allows the surgeons to look at the structure in a more in-depth fashion and to find the best surgical outcome.

MELANOMA AND SKIN GRAFTS

How many of us have experienced a burn? That's where this technology also is useful. There is now 3D printed skin intended to be used for burn victims. Unfortunately, for those of us who have ever done a shift in a burn unit or even on a med-surg. floor, we have encountered people with burned skin. They usually need skin grafts as a replacement for their burned skin. In oncology units, for patients with melanoma, skin grafts are also used to close the skin in invasive surgeries, where the mole in question requires a deep excision. The results of skin grafts are not always aesthetically pleasing. Now thanks to breakthrough research in Spain, a 3D printer biotype that uses a biological ink composed of human plasma and material from skin biopsies has been revealed. One hundred square centimeters of human skin was printed in approximately 30 minutes.

POLYPILL ANYONE?

In nursing school, we all learn how to pass meds. We have gone from writing med cards, with the name and purpose of the drug and the patient's dose to using a WOW, Workstation on Wheels with the latest version of whatever program your facility uses like Epic or Meditech. A patient's wristband is required that you must scan and match with the patient demographics, that is, name and date of birth. Have you ever had to give a patient 20 or 30 pills throughout a shift? Think about this patient, taking multiple meds with and without food and all that this requires. Guess what? There is a new concept called a polypill which is being tested on diabetic patients. This format refers to a pill that has multiple medications contained inside it which has been programmed to open and release its' contents at staggered times.

SAFETY ISSUES

Of course, as nurses in the workplace, our safety is always an issue. If nurses are around the manufacture of 3-D medical devices, they must know the risks they face in using this technology. Safety data sheets which are used in healthcare facilities now will also be available with these printers. In addition, nurses and other healthcare workers should be informed of the materials being used in the printer. They must be able to access proper safety protective equipment such as rubber gloves that are capable of withstanding corrosion, goggles in case of splashes, proper masks, lab coats, face shields and rubber aprons. Sounds simple, but nurses should also be instructed not to eat or drink if 3D printing is done in their area.

TOXIC FUMES

3D printers emit chemicals. These are known as high volatile organic compounds or VOCs. An ER visit might be warranted to check out eye, nose, and throat irritations as well as headaches, nausea and loss of balance. Ultrafine particles or nanoparticles are also released during the 3D printing process. They can also cause health issues. If this technology is used, it is imperative to stay up to date on protective measures.

The potential for lifesaving devices is limitless. Medical devices that will help patients will now be readily available. All technology has a risk-benefit ratio, and this is no different. Knowing the risks is necessary in this brave new world.

REFERENCES

1. How 3D printing is revolutionizing healthcare as we know it-TechCrunch. Reichental, A. How 3D printing is revolutionizing healthcare as we know it - TechCrunch. Published April 5, 2018. Accessed August 20, 2018.
2. The Heart Program at Miami Children's Hospital Uses 3D Printing Technology | Nicklaus Children's Hospital. The Heart Program at Miami Children's Hospital Uses 3D Printing Technology Press Release. Printed January 14, 2015. Accessed August 21, 2018.
3. Randolph, S.A., 3D Printing: What Are the Hazards? in Workplace Health & Safety: Promoting Environments Conducive to Well-Being and Productivity 2018 66(3), p.164.